Let’s face it, we can all get stuck in a rut sometimes. Instead of trying to power through why not leverage a more proactive approach that might help to give you a boost when you are feeling stuck in the mud.
Everyone has heard of the ‘to-do list’, you probably even have one on your desk right now but how about flipping that on its head to create the ‘to-don’t list’ — a list of all the things that are draining your energy. To-don’t lists have seen a surge in popularity and have even been endorsed by Oprah!
As Oprah says, “By identifying activities that eat up your time, keep you trapped, or offer minimal reward, a to-don’t list brings intentionality to what you want to say no to.”
When creating a to-don’t list, start by practising a little self-awareness that encourages you to identify certain habits that you want to break, tedious tasks that can be delegated or even behaviours you want to change.
Looking for a little inspiration on what to put on your list, below are some real-life examples that have been used:
- Don’t forget to take a break to rest your eyes
- Don’t sit in one place for more than one hour
- Don’t answer the phone on the first ring
- Don’t automatically say yes to requests
- Don’t look at things from a single or short-term perspective
- Don’t try to hold on to everything
- Don’t judge before you have tried to understand
By frequently referring to this list of avoidable behaviours, you may not only refine where you channel your energy but may also increase your sense of accomplishment and feel less defeated when something tries to derail your day.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
